Wildlife Sanctuary Group Backs Waystation Against Report

The embattled Wildlife Waystation animal refuge, accused in a state report of violating environmental and animal protection laws, got the backing of one of the nation’s largest wildlife sanctuary associations Wednesday.

The American Sanctuary Assn., of which the Waystation near Tujunga is the largest member, announced its support after a conference call among board members. Waystation founder Martine Colette is vice president of the board and participated in the call.

“The American Sanctuary Assn., as I suspected they would, has decided to get behind me,” Colette said, “because I have done nothing wrong. I am very grateful my peers are willing to show this kind of support.”

A California Department of Fish and Game report released Tuesday accused the Waystation--founded in 1976 to provide care for injured and abandoned animals--of violating environmental laws and possibly endangering the health of its animals and nearby residents.

“We have seen nothing on paper to prove Martine is as bad as they say she is,” said Carol Asvestas, a member of the association board.

“I have a problem personally with Fish and Game because they have taken animals to Martine when they needed her. Now they should be trying to help her, not trying to hurt her and telling her she’s a bad girl,” Asvestas said.

Fish and Game spokesman Steve Martarano said the agency does “realize the importance of the Wildlife Waystation. They do take in injured animals.

“What to do with the animals should they shut down is a concern,” Martarano said.

Last Friday, Fish and Game closed the 160-acre Waystation to the public and barred the facility from accepting new animals. Agency officials said Wednesday they expect to soon issue a complete report on the situation, including required improvements.

“Once the American Sanctuary Assn. gets the final paperwork from Fish and Game,” said Asvestas, “we will appeal to make sure all the requests are fair and within reason and that the Waystation is given enough time to comply.”

Asvestas said the state has unrealistic standards for a sanctuary that cares for injured wild animals.